And here's the recipe that will make your life *so* much easier...

Multipurpose Meatloaf Mix

• 2 eggs
• salt/pepper
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup oatmeal
• 1 T. Worcestershire Sauce
• 2 lbs. ground beef or chuck
• 1/2 cup minced or chopped onion

Mix above ingredients in large mixing bowl. Can be microwaved or cooked in oven (see below.)

Meatloaf Topping:

• Catsup
• Make a simple brown gravy mix from a packet.
• Use BBQ Sauce with a touch of brown sugar and brown mustard.

Microwave Directions:

Microwave meatloaf on high (wrap lightly with waxed paper) approx. 15 minutes. Drain, then top with your choice of sauce or gravy. Microwave another 3-5 minutes.

Oven Directions:

Cover meatloaf with foil and bake approx. 50-60 minutes. Drain, then top with your choice of sauce or gravy. Bake another 5-10 minutes.

** Will feed approx. 5 people ** You can use low-fat versions of items, too.

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A triple batch will make the following:

• 1 medium-sized meatloaf
• 2 meatball meals (Swedish, Red Sauce)

Note: While meatloaf is cooking, I make meatballs with a large ice- cream scoop (the one with the small, moving part that escorts the meat out of the scoop for you.) It will save your wrist and is so much quicker.

Cook meatballs until just done. Store in an airtight container in fridge. If freezing, be sure to cool them first. They can be frozen before or after cooking.

Having such a flexible recipe will make your meal planning and preparation much easier. And isn't it great to save a bit of time, while saving money, too? Enjoy!